Richard and Martin represent GBRf at the Cenotaph for Remembrance Sunday

On Remembrance Day, GB Railfreight honours all those who have served — and remembers those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

This year, two of our team members, Richard Ellis and Martin Cowlard, proudly represented GBRf at the National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph in London- a moving first for both.

Richard Ellis, Safety Manager, and Martin Cowlard, Operations Standards Manager based at Bescot, were honoured to represent GBRf alongside fellow veterans in the annual ceremony.

Richard served nearly 24 years in the Army, supporting UK Special Forces in operations across Iraq, Afghanistan, and beyond. Now working across GBRf sites nationwide, he brings a strong safety culture shaped by his military experience.

“The railway reminds me of the military — it’s a family, and we all pull together to get the job done,” he said. “Marching at the Cenotaph was a huge honour. I’m proud to represent GB Railfreight, the Army Air Corps, and everyone I’ve served with.”

Martin joined the Royal Corps of Signals in 1983 and served in Germany, Norway, Bahrain, and the Balkans. After leaving the Army in 2007, he transitioned into the rail industry, bringing his leadership and logistics expertise to roles at DB Cargo and now GBRf.“It’s about recognising the commitment people have made — not just those lost in combat, but also those who died in training or suffered in peacetime,” Martin said. “It’s a real honour to take part.”

Both Richard and Martin reflected on the importance of Remembrance Sunday as a time for reflection, reconnection, and honouring those who served.“You always bump into someone you know,” Richard added. “You might not have seen them in years, but you’ll have a chat, maybe a pint, and share a laugh. It’s a day of remembrance, but also of reconnection.”

We’re proud to have had Richard and Martin represent GBRf at this year’s service at the Cenotaph. We thank them for their continued dedication to GB Railfreight and for their years of service to the Army.